PERFECT BLUE by Yoshikazu Takeuchi

 

Perfect Blue: Complete Metamorphosis by Yoshikazu Takeuchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Several years ago, my daughter was going to get rid of this book because she didn't like it as much as the movie and she asked if I was interested in checking it out, I said 'yes'. I mean, I enjoyed the movie too. 🙂

Kirigoe Mima is a pop idol who embodies purity and innocence. But after years of doing the same thing, she's ready for a sexier change. Except, not all her fans are happy with this change, and one particular man is going to make sure she stays the same. Forever...

I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, but as soon as I started reading, I couldn't put it down. I literally read it in a few sittings because I really wanted to know how this was going to turn out. I know that sounds weird because I've seen the movie, but this is very different. It's pretty much a completely different story.

This turned out to be an excellent thriller with horror elements. As well as a good dose of gore, and features a delusional superfan. I mean, a monster. The guy is seriously demented. And so obsessed with Mima, he actually thinks he's helping her. 😳

Asides from the interesting commentary on the unrealistic expectations placed on these poor idols by the public—uh, I mean men—there's also the chilling reality of how women who are stalked (in this case via creepy calls and creepier letters) don't feel justified to go to the authorities because they won't be taken seriously. Until they're attacked. Or killed.

This is a sad fact.

I also really liked the characters. Mima was nice and easygoing, a kind woman who wants to change her image enough to grow with it. Rumi, her assistant, is another great character. A failed idol who dedicates her life to helping Mima's career. Her agent, Tadokoro, was a very likeable guy. Although Mima's his ticket, he still shows her respect and doesn't move forward unless she agrees, which I thought was awesome. Oh, and I can't forget about the photographer, Yuji. I liked his casual manner.

I loved all of their interactions, but especially enjoyed the last few scenes. Wow. That was quite the horror finale and it provided a satisfying conclusion!


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